Free dog micro-chipping events – Wednesday 9 March

A month before it becomes a legal requirement for all dogs to be micro-chipped, councils across Gloucestershire are holding events on Wednesday 9 March which will provide this service for free.

Councillor Sue Coakley, Cabinet Member for Health, Environment and Communities at Cotswold District Council, explains:

“From 6 April all dogs over eight weeks old must be micro-chipped and it generally costs around £20 to have this work done. However, we’re hoping that these free events on 9 March will encourage anyone concerned about the cost to turn up with their dogs so that they can ensure that they will comply with the new law and enable their dog to be returned to them swiftly if it strays.”

The Gloucestershire Animal Welfare Group, which comprises animal welfare officers from five of Gloucestershire’s district councils, the Police, the animal welfare arm of Gloucestershire Trading Standards Service and the RSPCA, has organised the events.

Times and locations are as follows (please note that dogs can only be chipped if they and their owners live in the catchment of the appropriate council):

Cotswold – Kingshill Sports Complex, Cirencester, 10 am – 6.30 pm

Stroud – Stratford Park Leisure Centre, Stroud, 12.30 pm – 5.30 pm

Cheltenham – Cheltenham Animal Shelter, 12 noon – 7 pm

Forest of Dean – Hawthorn Pet Supplies, Cinderford, 12 noon – 5 pm

Gloucester – Plock Court Tennis Centre, 12 noon – 7 pm

Alex Myrie, chair of the Gloucestershire Animal Welfare Group, adds:

“We deal with hundreds of dog-related issues every year. Compulsory micro-chipping will make it easier for us to return strays, deter theft and ultimately encourage responsible dog ownership.”

Gloucestershire Police will be attending all of the venues to raise awareness about sheep worrying. At the Gloucester event, advice will also be available for anyone who is thinking of buying a puppy.